UN Committee Criticizes Iran's Use Of Torture

A UN committee has expressed deep concern at Iran's continuing use of torture, the death penalty and execution of minors as well as the systematic targeting of human rights defenders.

In a resolution, the General Assembly's human rights committee calls for an end to rights violations and urges the government to immediately release all those detained for exercising their right to peaceful assembly.

The resolution also expresses concern at restrictions on candidates in the 2012 parliamentary elections and strongly urges the government "to ensure free, fair, transparent and inclusive presidential elections in 2013 that reflect the will of the people."

The 193-member world body will likely take a final vote on the resolution next month.